The 2026 NOR-MPS Workshop offers a focused, practice-oriented introduction to the rapidly advancing field of 3D organoids and microphysiological systems (MPS). Designed for researchers, student and laboratory professionals, the workshop combines concise theoretical overviews with express hands-on training to build both technical proficiency and conceptual understanding of advanced human-relevant in vitro models.
Through a series of three focused 90-minute modules, participants will gain direct experience with the design, culture, and application of 3D organoids and MPS. Each module will include practical demonstrations and guided exercises covering microfluidic chip fabrication and handling, 3D organoid and spheroid culture, and automation and imaging workflows.
By the end of the workshop, participants will get a practical overview in the generation, maintenance, and analysis of advanced 3D cellular systems, helping them to implement these approaches in their own research environments and contribute to the continued development of next-generation in vitro modelling.
Capacity max 30 participants (10 pr group) and registrations will be accepted on a first-come-first-served basis.
Group allocations can be downloaded Here.
Tentative schedule:
Module 1 – Recirculating organ-on-chip (rOoC) microfluidic platform (90 min)
- 15 min introduction (Location TBA).
- 60 min practical demonstration:
- 15 min practical demo + 15 min hands-on: fabrication of PDMS-free microfluidic devices (Fabrication lab).
- 15 min practical demo + 15 min hands-on: Handling of microfluidic devices (Main lab).
- 15 min Q&A + change group
Module 2 – 3D organoid and spheroid culture (90 min)
- 15 min introduction (Location: HTH Mouse lab).
- 60 min practical demonstration:
- 15 min practical demo + 15 min hands-on: generation and culture of spheroids and organoids.
- 15 min practical demo + 15 min hands-on: generation and handling of organoids in hydrogel.
- 15 min Q&A + change group
Module 3 – Automation and imaging (90 min)
- 15 min Introduction (Location: HTH Lunch area).
- 60 min practical demonstration:
- 15 min practical demo + 15 min hands-on: Automatized handling of 3D cell culture.
- 15 min practical demo + 15 min hands-on: High-throughput imaging of 3D culture.
- 15 min Q&A + change group
Wrap up and discussion
The NOR-MPS Practical Workshop is fully booked, and registration has closed.
Contact and support:
Petter Angell Olsen and Andrea Dalmao-Fernandez
Organizing committee Workshop:
Mathias Busek (U. Oslo/U. Tubingen), Aleksandra Aizenshtadt (U. Oslo), Igor Meszka (U. Oslo) and Almira Ibragimova (U. Oslo).
The event has been supported by UiO:Life Science
